Maurizio Sarri faces race against time to prepare Chelsea squad for new season

Simon Johnson13 July 2018

Chelsea have finally parted company with Antonio Conte after a turbulent season and confusing summer.

Conte’s compatriot Maurizio Sarri is ready to step in as the new boss at Stamford Bridge but faces a tough test to get a side playing his way before the Premier League season starts with a trip to Huddersfield on July 11.

Despite winning the FA Cup in his final game in charge, the mood had turned sour amongst sections of the squad and fans after failing to defend their title, finishing fifth missing out on Champions League qualification.

The Blues fly out to Australia to begin their pre-season friendlies next week, with those members of the squad not involved in the World Cup having already returned to Cobham for training.

One boost for the new manager is that Brazilian midfielder Jorginho is set to follow him from Napoli to west London.

Standard Sport’s Simon Johnson talks through the challenges facing the new Chelsea boss.

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